Virginia Department of Forensic Science

The Virginia Department of Forensic Science (DFS) is a state agency of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its purpose is to provide laboratory services in criminal matters in Virginia and to increase understanding of forensic science in general.

In 1972, DFS was first formed as a bureau attached to the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS). This bureau became a division in 1990, and a department in 2005. The current director, Linda Jackson, has been director of DFS since February 2013. DFS reports to the Governor's Secretary of Public Safety.